Investing Updates: Singapore, UAE are the ‘most crypto-obsessed’ countries: Report

Source:

https://cointelegraph.com/news/singapore-uae-top-global-crypto-obsession-rankings?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound

ChatGPT:

Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have emerged as the world’s most “crypto-obsessed” countries, according to a report by ApeX Protocol. Singapore took the top spot with a perfect score of 100, reflecting 24.4% of its population owning crypto and the world’s highest search activity—2,000 crypto-related queries per 100,000 people. Adoption in Singapore has surged, with ownership more than doubling from 11% in 2021 to over 24% by 2022.

The UAE followed closely with a score of 99.7, ranking first in global ownership at 25.3%. Adoption in the Gulf state has climbed 210% since 2019, peaking in 2022 when more than a third of residents held digital assets. ApeX’s study assessed countries across four categories: ownership, adoption growth, search activity, and crypto ATM availability.

The United States ranked third with a score of 98.5, leading globally in infrastructure with over 30,000 ATMs—ten times more than any other country—and reporting a 220% increase in usage since 2019. Canada placed fourth, fueled by the report’s highest adoption growth rate at 225%. While only 10.1% of Canadians own crypto, its 3,500 ATMs pushed its score to 64.7.

Turkey rounded out the top five with a score of 57.6, where 19.3% of the population own digital assets, ranking third in global ownership, supported by strong search activity. Other notable entries in the top 10 include Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Argentina, and Indonesia.

The report highlights how crypto is shifting from a niche asset class to a mainstream component of financial systems. ApeX noted that digital currencies now represent both investment opportunities and broader transformations in how societies view money and trust in the digital era.

Investing Updates: Coinbase users can now access Singapore dollar stablecoin in StraitsX tie-up

Source:

https://www.theedgesingapore.com/digitaledge/cryptocurrency/coinbase-users-can-now-access-singapore-dollar-stablecoin-straitsx-tie

ChatGPT:

Coinbase has partnered with StraitsX to list XSGD, a Singapore dollar-backed stablecoin recognised by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) under the upcoming Single Currency Stablecoin (SCS) framework. The collaboration expands stablecoin offerings beyond the US dollar, enhancing local and cross-border payment options for individuals and businesses.

XSGD allows users to convert one Singapore dollar into one tokenised equivalent, enabling transactions in local currency while reducing foreign exchange risks and volatility. This development aims to strengthen financial inclusion, encourage digital asset adoption, and support economic activity in Singapore. StraitsX CEO Tianwei Liu highlighted that direct access to non-USD stablecoins helps dismantle long-standing USD-centric barriers in on-chain FX markets, moving closer to a truly multi-currency and borderless financial ecosystem.

The partnership will also build liquidity pools across multiple currency corridors. XSGD will begin trading on Coinbase and Coinbase Advanced on September 29 (UTC), and will be issued on Base, Coinbase’s Ethereum Layer 2 network. A key feature is the launch of an XSGD/USDC pool on Aerodrome, a central liquidity hub on Base. Incentives will be offered to deepen liquidity and encourage adoption.

With XSGD live on Coinbase Singapore, users and developers can unlock new use cases in local currency. These include blockchain-based AI agent transactions, digital art purchases, acquisition of tokenised real-world assets, and permissionless, 24/7 foreign exchange activities.

Hassan Ahmed, Coinbase Singapore’s country director, noted that the move brings the company closer to its vision of instant, accessible payments worldwide, giving users greater participation in the global financial system.

Technology Updates: Apple’s new iPhone 17 makes signing safer for frequent crypto users

Source:

https://cointelegraph.com/news/iphone-17-memory-protection-boosts-crypto-security?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound

ChatGPT:

Apple’s newly launched iPhone 17 introduces Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE), a security upgrade designed to protect frequent crypto users from sophisticated cyberattacks. The system, enabled by default, applies Enhanced Memory Tagging Extension (EMTE)-style protections that detect and block unsafe memory access, such as out-of-bounds and use-after-free errors. These vulnerabilities account for nearly 70% of software flaws and are a common entry point for zero-day exploits targeting crypto wallets and Passkey approvals.

Cybersecurity firm Hacken highlighted that MIE “meaningfully” reduces risks by preventing attackers from hijacking signing code. By applying protections across both kernel and user-level processes, the system makes spyware and exploit development more difficult and expensive. Hacken noted that the feature directly benefits crypto wallet apps and Passkey flows, particularly for high-net-worth individuals or frequent signers.

Still, Apple’s MIE is not a cure-all. It does not address phishing, social engineering, malicious websites, or compromised applications. Users are urged to remain vigilant, as MIE complements but does not replace secure hardware wallets or basic security hygiene.

The upgrade comes amid rising threats to Apple’s crypto community. Just last month, a zero-click exploit was discovered that could compromise iPhones, iPads, and Macs without user interaction, prompting Apple to issue emergency patches. Earlier this year, Kaspersky reported malicious SDKs in app stores scanning photo galleries for wallet recovery phrases, while Trust Wallet previously warned users to disable iMessage due to an active zero-day threat.

By raising the difficulty and cost of attacks, iPhone 17’s MIE significantly improves baseline defenses for crypto users, but experts caution that layered security and user awareness remain essential.

Investing Updates: Ledger CTO warns users to halt onchain transactions amid massive NPM supply chain attack

Source:

https://www.theblock.co/post/369893/ledger-warns-halt-onchain-transactions-massive-npm-supply-chain-attack

ChatGPT:

Ledger’s Chief Technology Officer Charles Guillemet has urged crypto users to exercise extreme caution following what experts describe as one of the largest supply chain attacks in history. The incident stems from the compromise of an NPM account belonging to a reputable developer, with malicious code embedded in popular JavaScript packages that collectively have been downloaded more than one billion times.

Guillemet explained that the injected code silently swaps cryptocurrency addresses, redirecting funds to attackers without user awareness. This method, he warned, could endanger countless websites and applications — including crypto projects that rely heavily on JavaScript dependencies. Developers such as @0xCygaar and @0x_ultra highlighted that widely used packages like Chalk and its dependencies were impacted, noting billions of weekly downloads.

While the packages were reportedly patched around 15:15 UTC and NPM has disabled compromised versions, concerns remain that some website frontends could still be vulnerable. The package maintainer confirmed their account was hijacked after receiving a phishing email impersonating npmjs.com. Attackers threatened account lockouts to pressure maintainers into clicking malicious links.

Guillemet emphasized that users of hardware wallets like Ledger with “clear signing” are safe, provided they verify each transaction before approval. Those relying solely on software wallets are advised to halt onchain transactions temporarily.

The attack recalls earlier high-profile thefts, such as the $1.5 billion drained from Bybit by North Korean hackers, underscoring the crypto industry’s ongoing exposure to sophisticated exploits. Developers are urged to audit dependencies immediately and ensure their applications have not pulled compromised updates.

Though mitigations are underway, security experts caution that vigilance is crucial until the full extent of the attack is confirmed.

Investing Updates : Ethereum Turns 10: What's Coming in the Next Decade?

Source : 

https://decrypt.co/332724/ethereum-turns-10-whats-coming-next-decade

ChatGPT :

As Ethereum marks its 10th anniversary, experts are looking ahead to a transformative decade that could see the network evolve into the “base layer of the global economy.”

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🔧 What’s Coming in the Next 5 Years

- Major Upgrades Ahead: Upcoming updates like Fusaka (2025) and Glamsterdam (2026) aim to improve data efficiency, user experience, and network capabilities.

- 10x Scaling Goal: Vitalik Buterin and others project 10x scaling of Layer 1 (L1) by 2026, alongside improved Layer 2 (L2) interoperability.

- Interoperability Focus: Ethereum’s challenge is to make L2 networks feel like one unified system—seamless, fast, and low-cost.

- "Surge," "Scourge," "Verge," "Purge," "Splurge": These grouped upgrades will enhance transaction speed, simplify node operation, and boost network decentralization.

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🧩 The Endgame Vision (Next 10 Years)

- Danksharding & Verkle Trees: Planned innovations will reduce node hardware needs and make Ethereum more scalable and efficient.

- Zero-Knowledge (ZK) Tech: Expected integration into Ethereum's base layer could unlock privacy-preserving digital IDs and stronger institutional trust.

- Institutional Adoption: With ETF inflows growing and firms like BlackRock tokenizing assets on Ethereum, it’s increasingly seen as Wall Street’s settlement layer.

- Tokenization of Everything: From bonds to equities, experts predict most real-world assets will be represented on-chain.

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⚛️ Quantum Threats? Ethereum Says: “We’re Ready”

- While quantum computing may pose future risks, Ethereum leaders believe the network is the most prepared to adapt, with quantum-resistant cryptography already in development.

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🔮 Final Outlook

- Ethereum’s next phase is about mainstream adoption, usability, and infrastructure dominance.

- Experts believe Ethereum could surpass Bitcoin in value and utility as it becomes a trustworthy, programmable financial layer for global systems.

“The first decade was about idealism,” said one Ethereum leader. “The next will be about adoption.”

Opinion :

Bullish for Ethereum.

Predicting the top 2 to be BTC, ETH for some time.

Not sure who will be number 3.

Investing Updates : Trump's Bold Gamble: Could a $9T Pension Shift to Crypto Shake Market?

Source : 

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/55621108/trump-s-bold-gamble-could-a-9t-pension-shift-to?level=1&data_ticket=1752898809311001

Apple Intelligence : 

• Executive Order: President Trump is expected to sign an executive order opening the $9 trillion 401(k) pension market to cryptocurrencies, gold, and private equity.

• Potential Impact: The order could shift retirement funds from traditional assets to high-risk digital assets, potentially “rewiring” how Americans manage their savings.

• Trump’s Stance on Crypto: Trump has been a vocal advocate for cryptocurrencies, criticising strict regulations and investing heavily in digital assets through his company.

• Congressional Action on Crypto: The House passed three bills: the CLARITY Act, GENIUS Act, and Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act.

• GENIUS Act Impact: Legitimises stablecoins as payment-grade assets, potentially benefiting large issuers like Circle.

• Potential Consequences: Increased user activity, higher transaction fees, and potential dominance of established players in the stablecoin and exchange space.

• Stablecoin Adoption: PayPal and Visa now support stablecoins for cross-border and online payments.

• Banking Opportunities: Banks like JPMorgan, Bank of America, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo can benefit from managing stablecoin reserves and offering crypto custody services.

• Fintech Advantages: Fintechs like SoFi can leverage their technological expertise to offer comprehensive crypto services, potentially undercutting banks on fees.

• Potential Risks: Steep fees, high leverage ratios, and opaque asset valuations associated with illiquid private equity assets.

• Regulatory Challenges: Balancing innovation with investor protection in the retirement market.

• Impact on Retirement Savings: Potential for broader access to technological dividends but also exposure to novel risks.

Opinion : 

Very bullish for stablecoins.

I think DeFi Aave stablecoin yields will increase in demand.

ETH gas fees are still low during weekends.

Gaming Updates : What’s Next for 'MapleStory Universe'? More Ways to Play

Source : 

https://decrypt.co/327787/whats-next-maplestory-universe-more-ways-play

ChatGPT : 

Summary: What’s Next for MapleStory Universe?

Following the launch of MapleStory N, Nexpace (blockchain arm of Nexon) plans to *expand the MapleStory Universe* into a broader, more accessible ecosystem with mobile and web-based experiences by Q1 2026**.

🔹 Key Highlights:

- MapleStory N is a PC-based MMORPG where in-game items are represented as NFTs on the Avalanche-based Henesys blockchain.

- Nexpace aims to lower the entry barrier by launching over a dozen lighter mobile/web apps tied to the core game.

- First web app (launching by August 2025) will allow players to enhance items.

- Future apps will let users level characters, do quests, or grind XP on the go.

- A character rental system—where players can pay others to level up for them—is also being developed for release by early 2026.

🔧 Builder Ecosystem:

- Currently, third-party developers must get Nexpace approval and an API key to build.

- A developer portal is set to launch in Q3/Q4 2025, moving the platform toward a permissionless model.

- Builders will be rewarded in NXPC tokens, with 80% of supply reserved for contributors.

💬 Vision:

- Inspired by games like EA FC Ultimate Team, Nexpace wants MapleStory fans to casually engage with the universe throughout the day (e.g., while commuting or working), saving deep gameplay for weekends.

- All efforts aim to accommodate the aging player base, many of whom now have less time for PC gaming.

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Bottom Line: MapleStory Universe is evolving beyond the PC with mobile/web expansions, contributor incentives, and eventual decentralization—making the iconic RPG more accessible for modern, time-strapped players.

Investing Updates : CNA Explains: Singapore's tightened crypto licensing rules – 'closing the door' or 'raising the bar'?

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/crypto-licensing-mas-cna-explains-5186446

Apple Intelligence : 

• Regulation Target: Unlicensed cryptocurrency firms operating in Singapore that only serve overseas markets.

• Regulation Deadline: June 30.

• Regulation Goal: Closing a loophole and ensuring digital token service providers meet the same standards to bolster trust and align with global anti-money laundering efforts.

• Regulation Impact: Singapore’s Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is implementing stricter regulations on cryptocurrency firms, impacting both licensed and unlicensed entities.

• Licensing Challenges: While major players like Coinbase and OKX have obtained licenses, smaller firms face difficulties in obtaining licenses and complying with new regulations.

• Industry Response: Larger firms are adapting by relocating staff and operations, while smaller firms may face compliance costs, legal restructuring, or shutdown.

• Impact on Employees: Employees working for digital token firms generally do not have to relocate due to MAS’ stricter rules.

• Industry Reaction: Singapore’s approach to crypto, while not universally embraced, has been consistent.

• Compliance Efforts: Centralized exchanges have implemented enhanced KYC and AML measures to comply with regulations and prevent illicit activities.

• MAS’s Stance on Crypto Businesses: Firms with a substantive presence in Singapore, including servicing local customers, can still obtain licenses.

• Industry Preparation Time: The industry has had sufficient time to prepare for licensing requirements since the Financial Services and Markets Act was passed in April 2022.

• Impact of MAS’s Decision: A small number of providers are affected, and it doesn’t signify hostility towards digital assets but rather emphasizes meeting Singapore’s standards.

Rewards Updates : Crypto Exchanges Referral Rewards Ending?

Opinion : 

I've noticed recently many crypto exchanges in SG stopping their referral program rewards.

That's bad news. Not sure why they aren't allowed to give incentives like traditional brokerages.

Markets are around all time high right now. Personally, I'm waiting for some pullback to DCA. Meantime, let's enjoy the remaining school holidays.

Investing Updates : Crypto awareness in Singapore hits record 94%, but ownership falls

Source : 

https://cointelegraph.com/news/singapore-crypto-awareness-2024-survey?utm_source=feedly_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound

Apple Intelligence : 

• Crypto Awareness: Reached a record high of 94% in Singapore.

• Crypto Ownership: Declined to 29% in 2025 from 40% in 2024.

• Investor Demographics: Millennials and Gen X dominate the investor base, comprising 71% of all holders.

• Bitcoin Dominance: Bitcoin remains the most popular cryptocurrency in Singapore, held by 68% of investors and viewed as a currency, store of value, or investment asset by 86%.

• Investment Strategies: Direct ownership is preferred over ETFs, and arbitrage trading is on the rise, with 67% of respondents capitalizing on price swings.

• Singapore’s Crypto Hub Status: Singapore leads the world in blockchain patents, crypto-related jobs, and active cryptocurrency exchanges, solidifying its position as a global hub.

Investing Updates : Brave Wallet Adds Cardano Support

Source : 

https://www.altcoinbuzz.io/cryptocurrency-news/brave-wallet-adds-cardano-support/

Apple Intelligence : 

• Cardano Integration: Brave Wallet will support Cardano, allowing users to trade Cardano-native tokens.

• Partnership Goal: The partnership aims to improve Web3 interoperability, privacy, and user control.

• Cardano Functionality: Cardano users can manage assets, sign transactions, and participate in on-chain governance within Brave Wallet.

• Brave Wallet Integration: Brave Wallet now supports Cardano, expanding its multi-chain capabilities.

• Partnership Vision: Brave and IO share a vision for a more secure, accessible, and user-respecting Web3.

• Potential Expansion: The partnership could lead to Brave supporting IO’s Midnight sidechain for confidential smart contracts.

Investing Updates : Coinbase to become the first crypto firm to join the S&P 500

Source : 

https://cointelegraph.com/news/coinbase-listed-s-and-p-500-may-19?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound

Apple Intelligence : 

• Coinbase’s Inclusion: Coinbase will join the S&P 500 on May 19, becoming the first crypto firm in the index.

• S&P 500 Significance: The S&P 500 tracks the performance of 500 large US companies and is a broad measure of the US stock market.

• Impact on Coinbase: Inclusion in the S&P 500 is expected to increase demand for Coinbase stock as index funds and ETFs must buy its shares.

• Stock Performance: Coinbase shares rose 8.8% to $225.4 in after-hours trading and finished the trading day up 4%.

• Market Recognition: Coinbase’s inclusion in the S&P 500 index is seen as a major milestone for the company and the crypto industry.

• S&P 500 Inclusion Criteria: Companies must be profitable, trading on a major US stock exchange, generating at least half of their revenues in the US, and have a market cap above $18 billion.